Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints leading to pain and inflammation in the tissue surrounding the joints. Women are three times more likely to get diagnosed with RA than men and the disease can impact anyone within the age group of 20 to 50 years.

“Though, there are no exact numbers, we can safely say that RA impacts 0.5 per cent to one per cent of the population. Despite relatively high awareness levels on RA, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease which could pose an impediment to the treatment. Some of the common myths like RA only affects people of old age and that there is no treatment. It can have a negative impact on patients therefore it is important for them to come in for regular check-ups and follow the Rheumatologist’s advice,” says Dr Himanshu Agarwal, Consultant Rheumatologist Max Superspeciality Hospital, Vaishali.

“Smoking may contribute towards the increase in RA cases especially among younger population. People with genetic risk factors are also prone to developing the condition. RA causes pain and disability leading to loss of daily functioning and missing of work schedules. Change in weather also leads to change in barometric pressure which could exacerbate the arthritis. Majority of the patients come in within three months of experiencing the first signs of RA. About 0.5 to 1 per cent of the Indian population is affected with the condition. Education and early detection are crucial to the effective management of RA,” shares Dr Sonal Mehra, Consultant Rheumatologist at Jaypee Hospital, Noida.